For history buffs out there, it was 25 years ago when Toyota introduced its groundbreaking RAV4 model, creating the template for what is now the lucrative crossover SUV market niche.
What the RAV4 accomplished was an all-wheel drive vehicle with the ride, handing, and comfort characteristics akin to a sedan. That innovation is still flourishing a quarter century later. Hence, the fifth-generation RAV4 was introduced in 2019, offering the model’s widest selection ever, including first-ever RAV4 TRD Off-Road, the Hybrid offered in LE, XLE, XLE Premium, XSE and Limited model grades and the flagship RAV4 Prime PHEV with an EPA-estimated rating of 42 miles on all-electric battery power alone.
My 2022 RAV4 TRD Off-Road model continues to advance the concept, with a bold “Calvary Blue” coat of enamel and white roof, creating a two-tone look that stands out from the crowd. Engineered to tackle urban, suburban and outdoor adventures, RAV4 is built on Toyota New Global Architecture platform with a boldly chiseled design inspired by Toyota’s tough trucks.
Some high tech and premium features available for RAV4 include panoramic moonroof, digital rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, Qi-wireless phone charger, kick-type power lift-gate, bird’s eye view camera, smart key system on all doors, perforated heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive front headlight system, parking assist with automatic braking, and a head-up display.
My tester was powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The combination delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, 32 miles per gallon fuel economy down the highway.
What sets the TRD Off-Road apart from the rest of the lineup is 8.6-inches of ground clearance, a special heavy duty suspension, and 18-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels with all-terrain tires.
Two optional packages are also available including a weather package with heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, and intermittent wipers with de-icer function ($1,015). A technology package adds front and rear parking assist, digital rearview mirror, and Smartphone charging ($1,265).
In the gas AWD-equipped models (except Limited grade), all-wheel drive with dynamic torque control and rear driveline disconnect can automatically and transparently disengage and re-engage AWD as needed, optimizing fuel efficiency.
The TRD Off-Road may be built for roughing it, but that doesn’t exclude numerous convenience features to pamper and spoil. The highlights include dynamic radar cruise control, JBL audio with six speakers, four USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual zone climate control, and a 120V power outlet in the rear cargo area.
Toyota Safety Sense, standard on all current RAV4 models, includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beam, lane tracing assist and road sign assist. Blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert and rear cross traffic
braking system are standard on the higher grades.
A pioneer and leader in crossover SUVs from the start, Toyota currently offers the sporty, compact C-HR, all-new Corolla Cross, Venza, and Highlander in this expansive space. The RAV4 was assembled at Toyota’s Woodstock, Ontario, Canada plant.
Base Price: $37,680
Price As Driven: $40,460
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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